At the left is Arigon's favorite uncle Gene Alford. He was born on August 9, 1921 in Shawnee, Oklahoma and was a member of the Absentee Shawnee tribe -- and a 4th generation grandson of the famous Chief Tecumseh. He was one of many proud Native men who served in the US Army during World War II. His bravery won him the Purple Heart (with Cluster), the Silver Star and a bunch of other medals. He was also a man who served his community, working with youth and the Chilocco Indian School Alumni Assocation. He was married to Arigon's Aunt Susie for 49 years. Unfortunately, Uncle Genie (as he was known to Arigon and her family!) passed on a few years back, but his memory lives on through the lives he touched and Arigon's song "The Eagle Flies High." Hooray for Gene Alford!

On Arigon's last trip to Portland, Oregon she made a pilgrimage to visit the grave of Uncle Gene's dad, Webster W. Alford, Sr. who's buried in the Willamette National Cemetery. "He had a nice spot overlooking Portland, with lots of shade," said Arigon. It can't be said enough to those Native people who choose to serve in the military -- THANK YOU.